Southwest Scene.

Santa Takes A Quicker Ride

December 12, 1993|By Vicki Vass.

Leaving his sleigh and usual traveling companions back at the North Pole, Santa chose a most unconventional way to visit about 800 Alsip children last weekend.

He arrived at Apollo Recreation Center by helicopter, taking a break from his holiday preparations. In a brief interview, Santa confided he had left Rudolph responsible for the elves, who were finishing their toymaking.

The Alsip Park District, village government, Chamber of Commerce and Public Library worked together to transform the center into "Christmas Around the World," featuring holiday scenes from England, the United States circa 1950, Ireland and the Orient. Each child had a private visit with Santa and received a goody bag. Musical entertainment was provided by area schools.

"This is spectacular for children," said park district director John Curran. "This kicks off the Christmas season for us."

Mother McAuley High School student Gina Gragido, 16, of Alsip brought her younger sister, Jennifer, 7, to see Santa. "We come out every year," Gina said. "This is real nice."

Anne Gillette of Alsip chased her 13-month-old grandson, Ricky Hernandez, around the gymnasium. "I wanted him to see Santa, and he's really enjoying the music," she said.

Alsip resident Katherine Kavouris had brought her two sons, John, 4, and Peter, 2. "I always enjoy this event. This is the first time we actually got here early enough to see Santa's plane land," she said. "We look forward to this every year."

Barb Kelly of Alsip stood in a doorway with son Evan, 6, waiting to be admitted to the Ireland room. "I think this is beautiful. All the rooms are decorated great," she said. "This is fun."